DeltaQueen Roots Through Her Books in 2013

Welcome. I have decided to try and remove 100 books from my shelves this year, of which are to be both "Real" books and Kindle books.




I will denote e-books with the following: ††

I will include any ER books in my total so as to be encouraged to clear them in a timely fashion.

Hi Judy! I'm doing this challenge too. It would help if I stopped buying stuff, but I suppose I have until 31 December for that!

Hi Susan, sorry it's taken me awhile to respond, I haven't been coming here very often as I am still trying to meet my goal on my last years challenge. One more book to go!

Glad your going to be here next year, we can "root" each other on!

I have stopped worring about how many books I am adding to my shelves, I've realized that as long as I hang around LT hearing about great books, I will be adding to my shelves. This challenge has now become a way of ensuring that I keep moving the books along, always making room for the new ones.

BOOKS READ

January

1. The Secret Adversary by Agatha Christie - 4.0 ★
2. Tomorrow When the War Began by John Marsden - 4.2 ★
3. Double Crossing†† by Meg Mims - 2.0 ★
4. The Missing by Jane Casey - 3.7 ★
5. Domain of the Dead†† by Iain McKinnon - 3.5 ★
6. I Was Amelia Earhart†† by Jane Mendelsohn - 4.0 ★
7. My Family and Other Animals by Gerald Durrell - 5.0 ★
8. Tilt-A-Whirl by Chris Grabenstein - 4.0 ★
9. Brighton Rock by Graham Greene - 4.5 ★
10. Fright by Cornel Woolrich - 4.0 ★
11. An Irish Country Girl by Patrick Taylor - 3.8 ★

February

12. Lord Peter Views the Body by Dorothy Sayers - 3.8 ★
13. Ice Forged by Gail Z Martin - 3.1 ★
14. Armada Boy by Kate Ellis - 4.0 ★
15. The Scorpio Races†† by Maggie Stiefvater - 2.0 ★
16. The Help by Kathryn Stockett - 4.3 ★
17. Penrod by Booth Tarkington - 3.2 ★
18. A Long and Winding Road†† by Win Blevins - 3.1 ★
19. Black Mulberries by Caitlin Davies - 3.6 ★
20. Winter In Thrush Green†† by Miss Read (Dora Saint) - 4.2 ★
21. Dark Matter†† by Michelle Paver - 4.5 ★
22. Cold Light by John Harvey - 4.3 ★

March

23. Leave the Grave Green by Deborah Crombie - 3.6 ★
24. The Moving Finger by Agatha Christie - 3.7 ★
25. Kindness Goes Unpunished†† by Craig Johnson - 4.5 ★
26. The Coroner's Lunch by Colin Cotterill - 4.5 ★
27. Skippy Dies by Paul Murray - 5.0 ★
28. Hocus by Jan Burke - 3.3 ★

April
29. The Plague Court Murders†† by John Dickson Carr - 3.2 ★
30. The Witch Doctor's Wife by Tamar Myers - 4.0 ★
31. The Count of Monte Cristo†† by Alexandre Dumas - 4.4 ★
32. Dust And Decay by Jonathan Maberry - 4.5 ★
33. Outlaw by Angus Donald - 4.0 ★
34. The Enchanted April†† by Elizabeth Von Arnim - 3.3 ★
35. Alias Grace†† by Margaret Atwood - 4.1 ★
36. Day By Day Armageddon by J.L. Bourne - 4.3 ★
37. River Secrets†† by Shannon Hale - 3.4 ★
38. Flood by Andrew Vachss - 4.2 ★
39. My Enemy's Cradle by Sara Young - 3.4 ★
40. Red Bones by Ann Cleeves - 4.0 ★

May

41. American Elsewhere by Robert Jackson Bennett - 3.0 ★
42. The Persian Pickle Club†† by Sandra Dallas - 4.5 ★
43. The Red Dahlia by Lynda La Plante - 4.2 ★
44. The Winter Prince by Cheryl Sawyer - 3.3 ★
45. King of the Khyber Rifles†† by Talbot Mundy - 3.8 ★
46. The Crime At Black Dudley by Margery Allingham - 4.0 ★
47. The Eleventh Plague†† by Jeff Hirsch - 3.0 ★
48. Butcher's Crossing by John Williams - 4.7 ★
49. Nineteen Seventy Four by David Peace - 2.5 ★
50. The Firemaker by Peter May - 4.5 ★

June

51. Anne of Green Gables†† by L. M. Montgomery - 5.0 ★
52. The Fall by Guillermo Del Toro &Chuck Hogan - 2.7 ★
53. The Tenderness of Wolves by Stef Penney - 3.2 ★
54. Shards of Honor†† by Lois McMaster Bujold - 4.1 ★
55. Almost The Truth by Margaret Yorke - 4.0 ★
56. Million Dollar Baby by Amy Patricia Meade - 4.2 ★
57. Fer-de-Lance†† by Rex Stout - 3.8 ★
58. Ashes, Ashes†† by Jo Treggiari - 2.0 ★
59. Midwife of the Blue Ridge by Christine Blevins - 3.8 ★

July

60. Murder At the Vicarage†† by Agatha Christie - 4.1 ★
61. Daddy-Long-Legs by Jean Webster - 3.8 ★
62. The Long Ships by Frans G. Bengtsson - 4.7 ★
63. The Sorrow of War by Bao Ninh - 3.2 ★
64. Trainspotting†† by Irvine Welsh - 5.0 ★
65. The Shadow Patriots by Lucia St. Clair Robson - 3.6 ★
66. Walking With Ghosts by John Baker - 4.2 ★
67. The Hours Before Dawn by Celia Fremlin - 4.3 ★
68. The Convenient Marriage by Georgette Heyer - 4.1 ★
69. To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee - 5.0 ★

August

70. The Franchise Affair by Josephine Tey - 4.5 ★
71. Anne of Avonlea†† by L.M. Montgomery - 4.5 ★
72. The Cleanup by Sean Doolittle - 3.5 ★
73. Dragonfly in Amber†† by Diana Gabaldon - 5.0 ★
74. I Am Algonquin by Rick Revelle - 4.0 ★
75. Jalna†† by Mazo De La Roche - 3.9 ★
76. Henrietta Sees It Through†† by Joyce Dennys - 3.7 ★
77. Sob Story by Carol Anne Davis - 4.0 ★
78. News From Thrush Green by Miss Read - 4.2 ★

September

79. The Fear by Charlie Higson - 4.0 ★
80. Indelible by Karin Slaughter - 3.5 ★
81. The Lady of the Decoration†† by Frances Little - 3.8 ★
82. Rivers of London by Ben Aaronovitch - 4.2 ★
83. The Bounty Hunters by Elmore Leonard - 3.6 ★
84. The Unpleasantness At The Bellona Club by Dorothy Sayers - 4.0 ★
85. Laura by Vera Caspary - 4.3 ★
86. Watching the Dark by Peter Robinson - 4.1 ★
87. Anne of the Island†† by L.M. Montgomery - 4.2 ★
88. Number the Stars †† by Lois Lowry - 4.0 ★
89. Outpost†† by Ann Aguirre - 4.0 ★

October

90. Queen Lucia†† by E.F. Benson - 3.9 ★
91. The Trader's Wife†† by Anna Jacobs - 3.8 ★
92. The Inheritors by William Golding - 4.3 ★
93. Flesh Eaters by Joe McKinney - 4.0 ★
94. The Bloody Chamber: And Other Stories by Angela Carter - 4.2 ★
95. The Reapers Are The Angels by Alden Bell - 4.5 ★
96. Black Fly Season by Giles Blunt - 3.8 ★
97. Let Him Go by Larry Watson - 5.0 ★
98. A High Wind In Jamaica††: by Richard Hughes - 3.8 ★
99. The Woman in Black by Susan Hill - 4.3 ★

November

100. Fighting Caravans by Zane Grey - 3.4 ★

101. Good Graces by Lesley Kagan - 4.5 ★
102. Lord Grizzly by Frederick Manfred - 4.6 ★
103. Anne of Windy Poplars by M.M. Montgomery - 3.4 ★
104. Riders of the Purple Sage†† by Zane Grey - 2.5 ★
105. Escape From Berlin by Irene N. Watts - 4.2 ★
106. Birds, Beasts and Relatives by Geral Durrell - 4.1 ★
107. The Winthrop Woman†† by Anya Seton - 4.6 ★
108. Mrs. Miniver by Jan Struther - 4.1 ★
109. Wish Upon A Star †† by Trisha Ashley - 3.3 ★

December

110. The Song Is You by Megan Abbott - 4.4 ★
111. Winter Thunder by Mari Sandoz - 3.8 ★
112. Un Lun Dun†† by China Mieville - 4.0 ★
113. The New Sonia Wayward by Michael Innes - 4.1 ★
114. The Secret River by Kate Grenville - 5.0 ★
115. A Darcy Christmas†† by Sharon Lathan, Caroline Eberhart & Amanda Grange - 3.1 ★
116. Corpsing by Toby Litt - 4.2 ★
117. Anne's House of Dreams†† by L.M. Montgomery - 3.8 ★
118. Devil's Oasis by Bartle Bull - 3.9 ★

100 books is an impressive number, Judy! I am going small - limiting my self to 30 books, and hoping that is do-able for me!

Judy, I agrfee, as long they keep publishing new books, I'll keep adding new books to my TBR. Can't get away from that fact.

Dropping a star so I can follow your progress. I'm impressed with your target goal of 100. I decided to do this, too, but I am aiming much, much lower!

Good Luck, Judy! That's a lofty goal ;-)
I'll be checking in...

Gotcha starred, Judy! If anyone can read 100 you can! Good luck!

I'll be cheering you on to 100 books! I'll be going for 50 books myself.

Oh my gosh, 100 books! Way to go!

Yay, someone who has the same goal as me! Good luck to you Judy, I know I'll need it myself! :)

Finally home from my Mom's, I am eager to get started on the challenge. A big wave to all my visitors, sorry I wasn't here to welcome you.

Luckily I got some reading time in while I was away and was able to get two books read off the shelf so far this month. A good thing as I have added a few over the Christmas holidays, including a second e-reader and gift certificates that I am having fun spending!

I plan to get around to wish luck and good reading to everyone later today.

1. The Secret Adversary by Agatha Christie - 4.0 ★

I really liked this book. Although somewhat dated, the story was fun and the characters lively and interesting. I am a big fan of Agatha Christie, and this one, which is the first of the Tommy and Tuppence adventures, was a quick, light read that immersed me in the 1920's for a few hours.

2. Tomorrow When the War Began by John Marsden - 4.2 ★

A YA speculative story of a group of Australian teenagers who leave for a few days of camping in the bush only to return to find their country invaded, their town captured and their families held prisoner. Equal parts of a survival story and a war story with plenty of teen emtion thrown in. I really enjoyed this read and I'm looking forward to continuing on with this series.

Go Judy! Go Judy!

3. Double Crossing†† by Meg Mims - 2.0

A disappointing read as I was expecting much better from the 2012 Spur Award Winner for Best First Novel. Predictable plot and one dimentional characters and to make matters worse, a open ending. The author obviously expects this to be book one in a series. I was happy to erase this off my Kindle and will not be looking for any sequels.

Judy, always look forward to reading your threads. I find new authors to read. I am never disappointed.

Hi Cindy, thank you so much. I have expanded my author list by leaps and bounds since I joined LT, which is why I need this thread so much.

4. The Missing by Jane Casey - 3.7 ★

Certainly not a perfect read, but I liked more about this debut novel than I didn't. Not a murder mystery as much as a psychological study of how a family falls apart after the disappearance, with no resolution, of their 12 year old boy. The main character in The Missing is his now grown sister. She goes running one day and discovers the body of one of her students. The novel concentrates on how this damaged young woman copes with the stress of being involved in a murder investigation. This book has been on my shelves for a couple of years, and now I will be passing it along to other family members.

Making good progress, Judy.
Keep on keeping on :-)

>25 DeltaQueen50:, I liked that book really well.

#26 - Thanks, Cee. Things are about to slow down here as I just received a batch of books that I had ordered from the library.

#27 - Hi Connie, have you read anything else by Jane Casey. I have the first book of her series on my shelves but don't know if I will get to it this year.

I have The Burning on my shelves, but did not read that one yet! Maybe a ROOTable one for this year.

5. Domain of the Dead†† by Iain McKinnon - 3.5 ★

This book was a solid 4 star read until the end. Totally left me hanging. There is a sequel, so I was expecting some things left open, but would have appreciated some closure. So although I have now erased this one from my Kindle, I have also bought the sequel so I can find out if they escape from the zombies!

That's the problem with series. You have to buy the sequel.

> 20: I liked Tomorrow when the war began and the sequels, the whole series is 7 books, recommended!

Hi Anita, I have the next one waiting on my shelf. I am definitely planning on continuing on through John Marden's Tomorrow Series.

6. I Was Amelia Earhart†† by Jane Mendelsohn - 4.0 ★

I was torn about whether to count newer books toward this challenge, but I have decided if I read them off my shelves, they count. I Was Amelia Earhart is a very short book, I would call it a novella. Short Listed for the Orange Prize in 1997, this is a very poetic, almost dreamlike story of Amelia Earhart's last flight and the author's imagined outcome for that flight. First book to be erased off my Kobo (if I can just figure out how to erase books!)

I've got The Secret Adversary in my pile as well ;-)

Hi Robert, The Secret Adversary is a nice, light read that captures the time period to perfection.

Hi Judy,
I enjoyed I Was Amelia Earhart myself.
You are blazing thru the ROOTs! Good job ;-)

I'm about to start on my 2nd root. But then, I didn't aim for 100! So, I'm ok. I think.

Wow! 6 off the shelf already is impressive, Judy! You are starting the year off with a good stretch of reading!

Thanks Cee and Lori, for some reason I usually find January one of the easiest months to work this challenge, I guess as the year goes on the temptation to stray from my shelves gets greater.

It looks like you've had some good reads! Most of my reads are coming from books bought or received in December, so I think it's going to work the same way for me ;)

7. My Family and Other Animals by Gerald Durrell - 5.0 ★

My first five star read of the year and a rather recent entry on the TBR shelves. I received this book in December, part of a lovely present from my Secret Santa (who turned out to be Bazrah - Cee). To be totally honest, I have already ordered the next book in the trilogy. This book had me laughing out loud as I read of the adventures of Gerald, his eccentric family and the various creatures that he brought into their villa as they lived on the beautiful Greek island of Corfu. This book is one I know my Mother will enjoy so it is being passed on to her.

One of my favorite Durrell books! Glad you enjoyed it!

I read that many times as a teenager and thought it was hilarious.

Me too; my copy is fairly tatty-looking.

Oh - I'm so excited - I actually already have that in my TBR pile and its been there since 2011 so I could count it for this challenge. A 5 star read is definitely moving up.

Yay! You liked it! Really liked it ;-)
It's already on my WL.

Oh, I've never heard of this title - on the wishlist it goes!

I loved that series too. Mine were read and "relocated" to a new home a long time ago but I've been looking out for replacements. My husband and I still use phrases or words that Durrell used. There are some things I'll never forget - like his mother's two dogs named Widdle and Puke.

The episode of the missing staircase always had me laughing until I cried ...

I've had the Durrell on my wishlist for quite sometime, Judy. Thanks for reminding me to keep an eye open for it. Five stars are hard to pass up.

I hope everyone gets a chance to read this wonderful book. I have already received the next one in the trilogy and I'm looking forward to squeezing it in.

8. Tilt-A-Whirl by Chris Grabenstein - 4.0 ★

I've had this one on my shelves for quite some time. I admit I didn't have very high expectations for Tilt-A-Whirl, but I was pleasently surprised. An interesting plot, a great setting and an unusual main character all bought this book up a level for me. Luckily, I also have the next one in the series on my shelf as well.

Yay for eight finishing your first eight ROOTs, Judy!

Thanks Lori, I always hope to post a big number in January as it is usually my strongest month for Roots - since all the books on my shelves are Roots are the start of the year!

9. Brighton Rock by Graham Greene - 4.5 ★

Graham Greene is an author I have long wanted to try but have been nervous about. I can thankfully set my nervousness aside as I enjoyed this book very much. A complex story of a sociopath who is trying to avoid retributution, this one drew me in from the opening line. I distinctly remember buying this book a couple of summers ago at The Haunted Bookshop, it's not in the best of conditions, so I probably won't be passing this one along, but I will be recommending it to all.

10. Fright by Cornel Woolrich - 4.0 ★

Although I had to overlook a few flaws, I really liked this book. Cornell Woolrich writes great noir fiction and was responsible for some of the best noir films of the late 1940's. In fact, I would love to see Fright as a movie, I think it would blend well with the silver screen.The basic story is how a man's life gets overtaken by guilt and paranoia after he commits a murder. This book was passed on to me by my brother last summer and now will be sent along to the second hand store.

11. An Irish Country Girl by Patrick Taylor - 3.8 ★

I have been a fan of this series since the first book, but the author takes a slight departure with this book. Instead of reading about the doctors and citizen of the Northern Irish town of Ballybucklebo, this story delves into the past of Maureen Kincaid, housekeeper to the above-mentioned doctors. This one just didn't capture me quite the way the others have, but it still was interesting to read of "Kinky's" past. My sister is waiting for me to bring this book to her, so it's on it's way out of my house.

55: I've been nervous about trying Graham Greene too, but your review helps alleviate my fears. Some great reviews, and an excellent job on those ROOTS!

Thanks Laura, of course, right now I have been distracted by library books but have finally started one of my own to get the month started.

January Recap

TBR at start of January = 527
Total Books Read = 16
Roots Read = 11
Books Added = 10
TBR at start of February = 521

12. Lord Peter Views the Body by Dorothy Sayers - 3.8 ★

Although I do prefer a full length novel, this collection of twelve short stories about Dorothy Sayers detective, Lord Peter Wimsey was an enjoyable read. From dark and gruesome to light-hearted and fun, there is a story for everyone in this collection. This book is worth a read simply for the inventive story titles such as "The Entertaining Episode of the Article in Question" and "The Piscatorial Farce of the Stolen Stomach".

13. Ice Forged by Gail Z Martin - 3.1 ★

I received this book last December through the ER Program and I'm glad that I finally read it as I was feeling a little guilty about not posting a review sooner. To my mind only an average fantasy read, too long and a little muddled. Ice Forged is the first book in a series, but I doubt if I will continue on.

14. The Armada Boy by Kate Ellis - 4.0 ★

A well done police procedural that the author blends seamlessly with a historical twist. In this, the second of her DI Wesley Peterson series the police are investigating a case of an American Vet murdered and found on an archeology site. Have had this one on my shelves for a couple of years, and luckily I have the next one in the series as well.

15. The Scorpio Races †† by Maggie Stiefvater - 2.0 ★

I know I am in the minority in this, but I really didn't like this book. Just couldn't get into the story, found the pacing very slow, by the time the book finally picked up in the last third of the book, I just wasn't interested anymore. A disappointment as I thought I would love this book.

16. The Help by Kathryn Stockett - 4.3 ★

Kathryn Stockett has delivered a really engaging story that shines a light on a small corner of 1960's Mississippi. Great characters, some sympathetic and others downright mean. Her story is wonderfully blended with actual historic moments and, for me, was a very good read. My daughter has been urging me to read this one, and now I can see why.

You are making great progress, Judy! I thought The Help was a good read. I enjoyed the movie as well.

I will put The Help back on the TBR pile!

Wow! You are blasting through your roots!

Hi Lori, Connie and Cee, I was pleasently surprised by The Help. I think it was a good thing I waited so long to read it, it was so over-hyped that I needed my expectations to fade somewhat. I'm now looking forward to seeing the movie.

17. Penrod by Booth Tarkington - 3.2 ★

There is little to hold the modern attention span in Penrod, reading it is like entering a time capsule which transports one to the American mid-west just pre-World War I. Although considered a novel, this book consists of a group of short stories loosely woven together as we read of Penrod, a 10 year boy and his misadventures. There is a glimpse of Tarkington's excellent writing, but it's hard to ignore the casual discrimination of the day. My first Booth Tarkington, but I think I will follow this up with The Magnificent Ambersons at some point.

I think I remember Penrod as being on my mother's bookshelf. I still have some of those books in a box somewhere. Might need to go check out if it's there.

It reminded me somewhat of Tom Sawyer, Betty. Just be aware that it provides some really cringe worthy moments with the racial slurs that were so casually used back then.

You're really rocking, Judy!

#73 - Thanks - when you give yourself a goal of 100 then you better be ready to hit those TBR shelves! :)

18. A Long and Winding Road†† by Win Blevins - 3.1 ★

The fifth book in a series, I feel as if I am just going through the motions with series. I loved the first two books, but since then the story seems rather forced and unbelieveable at times. I will complete the series, but I am happy there is only one more to go. Another book off my Kindle.

19. Black Mulberries by Caitlin Davies - 3.6 ★

I've had this book on my shelf for some time, and this month was the perfect opportunity to read it as it fit several on-going challenges. I liked the story, but didn't love it. Set in Botswana, the story tells of two families, one white, one black, through four different female characters. I will pass this along to my Mom who may also wish to read it.

You are really doing great, Judy.

#77 - Thanks Connie.

20. Winter In Thrush Green†† by Miss Read (Dora Saint) - 4.2 ★

Whenever I need to visit a quieter, gentler time and place I pick up a book by this author. Her charming tales of English country life, set in the early 1950's the perfect vehicle to carry one away. This was a re-read and will be erased from the Kindle, but I will keep an eye out for a real book to keep on my shelves.

21. Dark Matter†† by Michelle Paver - 4.5 ★

An exceptional ghost story that reminded me of the classic ghost stories of the past and kept me glued to it's pages. I learned about this book here on LT and it certainly lived up to my expectations. I guarantee you'll want to keep the lights on while reading this one. Another one to clear off my Kindle.

22. Cold Light by John Harvey - 4.3 ★

Another excellent police procedural by an author who seems to specialize in realistic settings, characters and dialogue. I've had this book on my shelves for a couple of years and now will pass it on to other family members, while I look forward to number 7 in this series.

Wow! I'm beginning to believe you will really make your goal!!!!

Call me impressed :-)

Impressed by your reading. Great job!

Thanks Cee and Mandymarie, I've been hit by the library bug and have a pile of books from there to work through, I am trying to read one of my own for every library book, but it's going slow right now.

23. Leave the Grave Green by Deborah Crombie - 3.6 ★

A fast paced police procedural where the two main characters are investigating the death of a young man found in a lock on the Upper Thames. Along with their police work, they continue their slow romance which I am enjoying. This was number three in the series, and I am looking forward to the next one, which is also sitting on my shelf. This book will now be passed along to various family members and then it's off to the second hand bookstore.

24. The Moving Finger by Agatha Christie - 3.7 ★

The perfect read for Mystery March, as Miss Marple uncovers who is terrorizing a county village with poison pen letters. I've had this one on my shelves for a year or so, but it's not in the best of shape, so it may be the end of the road for this particular copy.

Ooh, I have The Moving Finger out from the library! Should read it this weekend.

I was a little disappointed that Miss Marple didn't play a more important role as she didn't appear until two thirds of the way through, but I really love the country village setting that Agatha Christie does so well, and I found the plot kept my attention.

25. Kindness Goes Unpunished†† by Craig Johnson - 4.5 ★

This is a series that just keeps on getting better. Although the setting is quite different, the storyline worked and made for some humorous reading as Walt and Henry hit the streets of Philadelphia. Another one off my Kindle.

26. The Coroner's Lunch by Colin Cotterill - 4.5 ★

This book totally lived up to the hype. I have fallen in love with the charming Dr Siri and can't wait to pick up a couple more of these excellent mysteries. Love the exotic setting of Laos as well. I will be passing this book along to various family members and I'm sure they will enjoy this book as much as I did.

27. Skippy Dies by Paul Murray - 5.0 ★

This was quite simply a brillant book. Funny, poignant and touching, Skippy Dies by Paul Murray is about the death of a fourteen year old Irish schoolboy, the events that lead up to his death and the aftermath. My brother has been waiting for me to read and pass along so he is in for a nice surprise when I visit my family later this week.

And another couple to add to my wishlist.

I've had a string of excellent books recently. Unfortunately my next read, one of a favorite series, didn't quite do it for me.

28. Hocus by Jan Burke - 3.3 ★

This is the fifth book in her series about reporter, Irene Kelly. In this one her husband has been kidnapped and Irene must find the identity of a policemen who was involved in a decade old crime. The plot felt a little tired and the ending seemed rushed. Off to the second hand book store with this one.

29. The Plague Court Murders†† by John Dickson Carr - 3.2 ★

From my Kindle, this is a locked room mystery of which the author is considered an expert at. This is also the introduction of the author's recurring character, Sir Henry Merrivale. I found that most of the book was taken up with setting the scene but I wanted to know the solution so I kept reading. Merrivale didn't come into the story until close to the end, and he quickly solved the crime. I will try another John Dickson Carr mystery at some point, but overall I found this book at little slow and plodding.

30. The Witch Doctor's Wife by Tamar Myers - 4.0 ★

I really enjoyed this book that I have had sitting on my shelves for almost two years. There wasn't a lot of mystery here, but the setting of the Belgium Congo in 1958 was interesting, and I look forward to reading more of this series. I have passed this book onto my Mom.

31. The Count of Monte Cristo†† by Alexandre Dumas - 4.4 ★

I had downloaded this free book onto my Kindle shortly after I got it, but it may have lingered there for a very long time except for the Group Read that has been taking place over the last couple of months. Now I have finally read this classic, and can truly number myself among it's fans. The ultimate revenge story.

You are doing great, DeltaQueen.

Thanks, Connie.

32. Dust & Decay by Jonathan Maberry - 4.5 ★

Far from great literature, but I am totally hooked on this YA zombie series. This second book in the series was even more action packed than the first. Great characters and lots of chills and thrills, what more could you want from a zombie read? Believe it or not my 92 year old Mom is totally hooked as well and I have passed this book onto her.

33. Outlaw by Angus Donald - 4.0 ★

This first in a series based on the fabled Robin Hood, this was an action packed historical adventure. I've had three volumes of this series sitting on my shelves so it was good to finally get at least one read. This book, along with the others when I get to them, will be passed on to my brother.

Woohoo!

Hi Judy! You're making excellent progress, particularly with The Count of Monte Cristo in there - what a chunkster!

Waves to Cee and Susan.

34. The Enchanted April†† by Elizabeth von Arnim - 3.3 ★

On my Kindle and read for a group read, this book will be remembered for it's lovely writing, gorgeous setting and extremely crappy ending.

35. Alias Grace by Margaret Atwood - 4.1 ★

Another book to be taken off my Kindle, and my first completed Margaret Atwood. I was quite nervous as I have been disappointed by this author in the past, but Alias Grace was both very accessible and held my interest. Delving into a real case of double murder, this book asks the question of whether serving woman, Grace Marks, was guilty as convicted in 1843.

36. Day By Day Armageddon by J.L. Bourne - 4.3 ★

This was a very good zombie apocalypse story that kept me glued to the pages. I've had this one on my shelves for a couple of years and really wasn't expecting much when I picked it up. A surprisingly good book and, of course, now I have hunt down the rest of the trilogy.

37. River Secrets†† by Shannon Hale - 3.4 ★

The third entry in the Books of Bayern fantasy series, this was a vast improvement over the second book, but the first one, The Goose Girl remains my favorite. A quick, easy and delightful read. Another one off my Kindle.

38. Flood by Andrew Vachss - 4.2 ★

This thriller was originally published in 1985 and harkens back to a different era. Set in New York City, with a hard-as-nails PI tracking down a child murderer for vengence, it is dark, gritty and very good at holding the readers attention. I have had this Vintage Crime, Black Lizard edition on my shelves for about four years and now I will be passing it along to other family members.

39. My Enemy's Cradle by Sara Young - 3.4 ★

This book has been sitting on my TBR shelves for quite some time, and I was looking forward to it. I did enjoy it, found it very readable, but there were many plot holes that I had to be willing to accept. Full of romance and suspense, this is the story of a half-Jewish girl who finds herself in a Nazi Lebensborn home. I will be sending this book along to the second hand book store.

Never heard of Lebensborn homes, but I googled and informed myself. Never to old to learn.

Hi Connie, I would like to read more about the Lebensborn as this book, being a romance, just barely scratched the surface. At first the idea of a safe haven for girls, both German and otherwise, that were impregnated by soldiers sounds like a very good idea. Unfortunately, the Nazis took this institution, like so many others, to the extreme.

40. Red Bones by Ann Cleeves - 4.0 ★

My last book for April was Red Bones, the third of this author's series set in the Shetland Islands. The author blends current murders with events from the past as a family's secrets from the days of WW II come to light. Great atmosphere and an intriquing plot line made this book very readable. I will be passing this one along to family members.

First root for May:

41. American Elsewhere by Robert Jackson Bennett - 3.0 ★

This chunkster (662 pages) was an overdue ER book, and if it hadn't been for that I may have abandoned it. A blend of sci-fi, horror and fantasy, it just didn't hold my interest. I appear to be in the minority about this as most people who have read it have loved it. Just not the book for me.

42. The Persian Pickle Club†† by Sandra Dallas - 4.5 ★

From my Kindle, The Persian Pickle Club was a great read. Exploring the bond between women, set in the Dustbowl of Kansas during the 1930's, I could hardly put it down. A few twists and turns in the plot added to the interest. I am now thinking of ordering a hard copy (if I can find one) cause I know my Mom would love this book as well.

43, The Red Dahlia by Lynda La Plante - 4.2 ★

A well done police procedural, and the second in her Anna Travis series, The Red Dahlia was an edge of your seat read. I've had this one sitting on my sheles for about three years, and now it will be passed on to family members.

44. The Winter Prince by Cheryl Sawyer - 3.3 ★

A very detailed historical fiction about the English Civil War, this book has focused on an alleged affair between Prince Rupert, nephew to Charles I, and Mary Villiers, Duchess of Richmond, a prominent figure at Court. The author supplies so many detailed descriptions that at times the book drags, but is an interesting look at the period and the main players of the time. I will probably pass the book on to my sister.

45. King of the Khyber Rifles†† by Talbot Munday - 3.8 ★

From my Kindle, there is nothing literary about King of the Khyber Rifles but this adventure story kept the pages turning. Reminding me somewhat of Edgar Rice Burroughs and H Rider Haggard, this story would fall under the category of a ripping good yarn.

46. The Crime at Black Dudley by Margery Allingham - 4.0 ★

I really enjoyed this, the the first book in the author's Albert Campion series even though Campion himself was mostly a secondary character in this story. I am trying to obtain all the books in this series and I have managed to collect quite a few. For now this book goes back on my shelves with the rest of the collection.

47. The Eleventh Plague†† by Jeff Hirsch - 3.0 ★

I didn't love this book but I also didn't hate it either. So just an ok read about a future America that has been decimated by the eleventh plague. The survivors appear to have gone stupid, as no seems to know how to bring back any modern conveniences and so they muddle along doing everything by candlelight. There is the usual boy meets girl entanglement and as everything was left hanging at the end I suppose they could be a planned sequel. I haven't bother to check as this one book was enough for me, but I can't complain too much, it was a .99 cent daily deal for my Kindle.

48. Butcher's Crossing by John Williams - 4.7 ★

Partly a coming of age story, partly a discourse on ecology this was a superbly crafted story of a doomed buffalo hunting expedition in the 1870's. I feel that this book deserves much wider recognition that it seems to garner. I heard about it here on LT and searched it out, now I can hardly wait to pass this on to my brother as I know he will appreciate it as well.

49. Nineteen Seventy Four by David Peace - 2.5 ★

I was really looking forward to this book, the first in the Red Riding Quartet, but unfortunately this book was too dark, too violent and vicious in it's portrayal of police coruption, serial murder and basic cruelty. I usually like a book that takes a dark turn, but this one was just creepy. The bad news? I have the other three still on my shelves.

All four out the door? ;-)

I consider purging a perfectly acceptable way to reduce the TBR (especially if there's not a chance in... that I'll read them)

I am planning on trying the next one in the quartet, but I have a feeling that I will probably not be able to stomach it. So, yes, there is a good chance that all four will be out the door very soon!

50. The Firemaker by Peter May - 4.5 ★

Another first in a series that has been sitting on my shelf for a few years. I have often thought about reading this book, but never quite got there - a big mistake. I loved this book and seriously considered giving it 5 stars, but then I thought maybe I was just comparing it to my previous read so I'll let it simmer for awhile but I may come back and up the rating. Set in Beijing, this book follows Chinese Police Inspector Li Yan and visiting American Margaret Campbell, doctor of forensic pathology, as they investigate a triple murder. Interesting plot and great chemistry between the two lead characters with plenty of information about Chinese culture and way of life sprinkled throughout.

The above will be my last completed book for May, bringing me to a YTD total of 50 books cleared from my shelves. With a goal of 100, I am half way there, so (fingers-crossed) I should be able to complete the challenge and reach my goal this year.

Great work! I'm also glad you liked The Firemaker -- good antidote to your previous read. :)

Your remarks on The Firemaker sound familiar - I think some one else mentioned this book favorably in their thread here on LT also.

#128 - Yeah, it great to read a crime story that help to wash the bad taste out of my mouth from Nineteen Seventy Four!

#129 - Betty, I am looking forward to continuing on with this series, and I have the next two on my shelves. :)

51. Anne of Green Gables †† by L.M. Montgomery - 5.0 ★

My first root for June, and what can I say, I simply love this book. This was my fourth reread, but it's been some twenty years since the last time. I have a copy of this book on my keeper shelves, so this kindle copy will be wiped out.

Go, Judy!
I was sceptical, but now I believe! You will get out 100 roots before the end of the year. Impressive ;-)

Thanks, Cee.

52, The Fall by Guillermo Del Toro and Chuck Hogan - 2.7 ★

Second book in a trilogy, The Fallwas an overdone vampire story that was nasty and gruesome, but after the first shock wears off there wasn't enough of a story-line to hold my interest. I won't be going out to look for the third volume. I'll be glad to pass this book along to the second hand store.

That does not sound good, DeltaQ. I hope your next one is more enjoyable.

Hi Connie, my next book, while not a stellar read, was certainly a lot better than my last.

53. The Tenderness of Wolves by Stef Penney - 3.2 ★

The Tenderness of Wolves is a beautifully written book, and is full of well drawn, interesting characters but for me, the author's decision to insert so many stories in and around the main murder plot made for a frustrating read. I failed to connect with any character and found the overall book a little too complex.

>136 DeltaQueen50:. Glad to hear that, DeltaQ. Is that the book you described in post 137?

137 > I tried reading that book last year, but I couldn't get into it. There was no connection with the characters either, so I gave up after a few pages. From your review, it's probably a good thing I didn't give it more of a chance.

#138 - Connie, yes, I was talking about The Tenderness of Wolves.

#139 - Samantha Kathy, I felt much the same way. I enjoyed the beautiful writing but never connected with the characters so can't say that I really enjoyed the book.

54. Shards of Honor†† by Lois McMaster Bujold - 4.1 ★

I really enjoyed this fun read. I haven't read a lot of sci-fi, but this one was recommended and I loved the story and appreciated that it was light on the technical information. Here I go again, another first in a series that I fully intend on continuing on with!

55. Almost The Truth by Margaret Yorke - 4.0 ★

This is a book that been sitting on my shelves for quite some time. The subject matter is intense dealing as it does upon the impact to a family who experience the rape of the nineteen year old daughter during a robbery. The book also becomes quite suspenseful as the father plans a revenge.

>141 DeltaQueen50:: Ooh, that's a really fun series! I almost envy you, still having most of it in front of you to read.

#143 - I have the second book Barrayar waiting on my Kindle, and hope to get to it next month! :)

56. Million Dollar Baby by Amy Patricia Meade - 4.2 ★

What a fun read this book was! A light hearted mystery, first in a series, set in a small New England town during the 1930's. As well as enjoying the story, I couldn't help but mentally cast this as a 1930's movie. Light, engaging and humorous, I will definitely be continuing on with this series. I think my Mom, who remembers the 1930's well, will enjoy this book as well.

57. Fer-de-Lance†† by Rex Stout - 3.8 ★

I enjoyed Fer-de-Lance, the first book in the Nero Wolfe series and the first Rex Stout that I have read. Nero Wolfe is an eccentric genius, a recluse who never leaves his home. He relies on Archie Goodwin to do his legwork for him. I loved both these characters and look forward to reading more about them.

58. Ashes, Ashes†† Jo Treggiari

I have had this one on my Kindle for over a year and what a waste of space it was. This was one hot mess and the only good thing I can say about it is that it only cost my 99 cents.

>147 DeltaQueen50:: Feels even better to clear space when it means removing deadwood, doesn't it?

I think most of my ROOTs are like that. It would be better just to get rid of the lot instead of hanging on to them believing that a day might come when I've nothing better to read. Fat chance that my tbr would ever get so low!

I've certainly learned to be much more picky when it comes to those daily deals. If a book isn't already on my wishlist I now pass it by. Unfortunately I still have a few to clear out that I bought just because the price was right. I just can't bring myself to throw them away unread though.

59. Midwife of the Blue Ridge by Christine Blevins - 3.8 ★

Another book that I have had on my shelves for a number of years. I did enjoy this one even though the history was light and there was more romance than I was expecting. But the story moved quickly and the author obviously did some extensive research into the home remedies that were used in Colonial America. This book reminded me a great deal of the Outlander series. A quick, action packed and quite enjoyable read.

--> 149 -148. That's so true! I've learned that too. It took me some years but I now think I'm finally getting more selective then I was in my younger years.

60. Murder at the Vicarage†† by Agatha Christie - 4.1 ★

Agatha Christie always delivers a good read, and in this, the first of the Miss Marple mysteries we are introduced to the quaint village of St, Mary Mead and the uncomparable Miss Marple. Peopled with various delightful and quirky characters, the mystery was secondary to my enjoyment of the book.

61. Daddy-Long-Legs by Jean Webster - 3.8 ★

I have mixed feelings about this book. On one hand it was a sentimental, light-hearted read, but the relationship between orphan Judy and her benefactor, Daddy-Long-Legs was a little disturbing. By the books end, however, I could see that Judy and her Daddy-Long-Legs were going to be truly happy together and in a romance such as this that's the outcome you are looking for.

With Daddy-Long-Legs (a book I love, mostly for the snapshot of girls' college life), the disturbing thing for me is how quickly people started calling it a children's book given the age difference between the lovers... She wrote a sequel, Dear Enemy which I actually like a bit more (it's about Sally MacBride working for the orphanage Judy grew up in, also told in letters, but to and from a wider variety of people).

You are cooking with gas Delta! This summer has really slowed me down. Just too much going on to allow much reading time. But what I am reading I am enjoying. Keep up the good work.
hugs,

Sorry it's taken me so long to reply to the last couple of posts, I've been reading too many library books!

#154 - I have picked up Dear Enemy on my Kindle and I am looking forward to reading Sally's story. I think a lot of books that were written in the 1800's and early 1900's are today classed as YA when I don't believe that classification even existed in those days.

#155 - Hi rainpebble. I did get sidetracked by library books the last little while but from now to the end of the month, I hope to only read from my shelves.

62. The Long Ships by Frans G. Bengtsson - 4.7 ★

This is a huge, brawling adventure story of a viking named Red Orm. The book follows his life, his voyages, his marriage and the raising his family. Along the way we are treated to one great yarn, all backed with well researched historical events and details. My brother has been eager to get his hands on this book so he will be delighted that I have finally finished it.

The Long Ships sounds like a great book to get one's head out of the daily grind Delta. And a rating of 4.7 *....WOW!~! I might need to read this one and I hope your brother enjoys it as much as you did.

It is a great read, Belva. I've had it on my shelves for a some time, but there was a group read of it this month so that gave me a reason to puck it off the shelves and read it.

63. The Sorrow of War by Bao Ninh - 3.2 ★

I feel that I should be rating this book much higher for the writing was beautiful and his thoughts and feelings on war were both profound and tragic. Unfortunately because there was really no plot to follow, it was more a series of rambling thoughts, I just didn't connect in any way to the book. I'm glad I read it, but it felt more like I had just completed a magazine article than a full novel.

64. Trainspotting†† by Irvine Welsh - 5.0 ★

I listened to the audio version of Trainspotting and I highly recommend it. I was mesmerized by this book which consists of a series of loosely connected stories. Set in the 1980's and dealing with a group of youths from Leith, these stories tell of their heroin addiction, poverty and hopeless view of the future. Brutal, honest and at times both hilarious and heart-breaking. A fantastic audio version, expertly read.

I've been waffling on whether or not to read Trainspotting, but now I'll definitely give it a go. Thanks!

#162 - Just a word of warning - I had to listen to the beginning of this book about 5 or 6 times to be able to understand the reader as the book is written using Scottish slang and dialect. I don't know if this will be easier or more difficult to understand if read to yourself but it is a fantastic book and certainly worth your time. Hope you enjoy.

Thanks for the warning, I'm not too worried though. I've watched a lot of Scottish shows in the last few years and I'm definitely good on Glasgow slang, at least.

65. The Shadow Patriots by Lucia St Clair Robson - 3.6 ★

A decent read from a trusted author, dealing with the American Revolution. Based loosely on the real story of a woman who became a spy for the Americans. Not a keeper, this one will be packed off to the second hand store.

66. Walking With Ghosts by John Baker - 4.2 ★

I really enjoyed this book which is the fourth in a series about an English Private Eye who works in York. In this book some of the regular characters were dealing with personal issues and I found this gave the book an added depth. Will be passing this one along to other family members.

67. The Hours Before Dawn by Celia Fremlin - 4.3 ★

A page turning thriller based on a mother's sleep deprivation. Is she imagining things or is something wrong. The suspense and chills rise slowly and keep you glued to the pages. I really enjoyed this one and will be passing The Hours Before Dawn along to my Mom.

68. The Convenient Marriage by Georgette Heyer - 4.1 ★

This was the perfect read for me right now as I am going through a difficult time with family illnesses. Georgette Heyer can be relied upon to provide a light, upbeat story. The perfect carry-along book.

Sorry to hear your family is experiencing illness. I hope all will be well again soon. Meanwhile, enjoy a good read.

I'm glad to hear you can find some distraction in reading. I hope everything will be allright in the end.

#169 & 170 - Thank you so much for your kind wishes.

69. To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee - 5.0 ★

A re-read of an old favorite and although I haven't read this in more than 30 years, it's still a magical story that remains one of my all time favorites.

70. The Franchise Affair by Josephine Tey - 4.5 ★

Josephine Tey is a favorite author and The Franchise Affair is one of her best books. I really enjoyed the gentle pace, refined characters and original plotting of this story. The book has been on my shelves for a couple of years and now is being passed along to my brother.

Delta, I enjoyed Tey when I read her Brat Farrar. It was pretty fascinating. I may have to read some more of her works.
Congrats on finishing "Mockingbird" so early on. Your name is in the hat. My love for that book does not diminish no matter how many times I read it.

You are kicking butt with your ROOTs. Good job!

Oh yes, Brat Farrar is one of those books I can re-read every five or six years. And what good progress with your ROOTs! Great job!

Brat Farrar was the first Josephine Tey that I read and I loved it so much that I immediately started collecting more of her books. I have read most of her stand alone books and I am now working my way (slowly) through the Alan Grant series.

#174 - Belva, I forgot to check in with the group thread for To Kill A Mockingbird, I've been away for a bit, but will have to make sure to do that soon.

#175 - Thanks for the support, I need to read lots of ROOTS as I seem to be filling my shelves up again at a much faster rate than I am clearing them.

>176 DeltaQueen50:: Judy, I loved Josephine Tey's books too. It's almost time for a re-read.

I know what you mean about new books exceeding the ROOTS coming off the shelves. The books I added for the Commonwealth challenge this year took care of any space that was left on my shelves.

#177 - Last year I kept close record of the books being added to the shelves and books going out, but I gave that up this year. It's like I have no control at all, books just seem to keep pouring into the house and I have to find places to stuff them!

71. Anne of Avonlea†† by L.M. Montgomery - 4.5 ★

This is the second Anne book and covers the two years that she teaches at Avonlea. The author really shines with her characterizations and her descriptive writing, making this a book I really love no matter how many times I read it.

I love the Anne series Delta! When I am down or after I have read a particularly disturbing book, I run to L.M. Montgomery for the soothing of my soul. Love her!

Hi Belva, I'm using the Anne series as comfort reads myself right now, as you say, very soothing.

72. The Cleanup by Sean Doolittle - 3.5 ★

The Cleanup was a good, solid thriller that was slightly formulated but nevertheless was a pretty good read. I've had this book on my shelves for almost two years. I am going to pass this along to my husband who enjoys thrillers. I would certainly try another book by this author in the future.

73. Dragonfly In Amber†† by Diana Gabaldon - 5.0 ★

I really enjoyed the audio version of this book as narrated by Davina Porter. It's been over 25 years since I last read this story and I am really enjoying revisiting Claire and Jamie and once again following their adventures. Can't wait to load this next audio.

Delicious story! I love Diana Gabaldon and looking forward to her next book.

Hi Connie, I wasn't sure if this story would stand the test of time, but I am enjoying it as much now as I did many years ago. Claire and Jamie make a wonderful couple.

74. I Am Algonquin by Rick Revelle - 4.0 ★

This YA Historical Fiction book reads a little like it was meant to be taught in the classroom, but for all of that, I still enjoyed this book a lot. I have always loved books that deal with survival and this story is all about the survival of the Algonquin nation. Set in the 14th century and filled with hunts, forest fires and, battles the story held my attention throughout.

> 185. Yes, Claire and Jamie are yummy!

75. Jalna†† by Mazo De La Roche - 3.9 ★

Although the first book that the author wrote about the Whiteoak family, chronologically it is 7th in the series. A good introduction to this interesting family, I now plan on going back and reading about the familys' early beginnings in Canada and how their home of Jalna came to be built.

Ohh, just hearing the word 'Jalna' brings back memories. I must have read those books in the 70ies.

I remember watching some of the Jalna TV mini-series that was on in the 1970's and I have always kept the series in the back of my mind for a read one day. Now that they have been re-issued and are available for the kindle, I'm in business.

76. Henrietta Sees It Through†† by Joyce Dennys

This is the sequel to Henrietta's War which I read last year. This second volume covers the years of 1942 to 1945 and is a straight continuation of where the first book left off. Henrietta's light and humorous letters to her soldier friend, Robert, tell of how she and her friends are coping with the day-to-day life in this time of shortages, rationing, and fear. This book is also enhanced by the authors' line drawings which make the characters come to life. Quick and enjoyable.

I remember my grandmother had the Jalna novels, and I read my way through them when I was about 12. I don't really remember much about the story now, though.

I only remember the feeling the books gave me, no more, Robert. But the feeling is a good one!

Having only read the one book so far I can't judge the whole series, but I did find it a much simplier story than I expected. Rather than a lot of complicated story lines, the author kept it straight forward and dealt entirely within the family. I think I see this series as a source of future comfort reads.

77. Sob Story by Carol Anne Davis - 4.0 ★

I've had this book on my shelf for quite some time and I was expecting a action-packed thriller, but what I got was a convincingly creepy psychological study that was quite gripping. The story bogged down a bit with the sheer amount of information that the author was trying to impart, but overall, this information went a long way towards explaining the characters motives. I'll be passing this one along to family members.

78. News From Thrush Green by Miss Read - 4.0 ★

When I am in the mood for nostalgia and comfort, I know I can always turn to this author. In News From Thrush Green I once again visited this quiet, rural village in the Cotswolds. From picturesque descriptions of the rural scenery to the day-to-day life of Thrush Green, these books are both warm and joyful.

79. The Fear by Charlie Higson - 4.0 ★

This is the third entry in Charlie Higson's YA zombie series, and the action is fast and blood-stained. This is a world where everyone over the age of 15 has caught a strange disease that either outright kills or leaves the victim a flesh-craving zombie-like creature. Set in London, various groups of children come together and claim a territory where they intend to start a new life. Unfortunately, they are so busy fighting one another, they haven't yet noticed that the diseased are evolving into stronger, smarter and faster creatures.

80. Indelible by Karin Slaughter - 3.5 ★

A fast reading thriller featuring Sara Linton, Jeffrey Tolliver and Lena Adams. In this, the fourth in the Grant County series, Jeffrey's past and the beginning of Sara and Jeffrey's relationship comes into play along with a tense hostage situation.

This book will be passed on to family members and will eventually find it's way to the second hand book store.

81. The Lady of the Decoration†† by Frances Little - 3.8 ★

I've had this on my Kindle for some time, originally I got it because it helped fill in one of the two years I needed to complete my list of a Century of Reading. I wasn't expecting to enjoy the book as much as I did. Written in letter form, the book tells of a young American widow who goes to Japan in 1901 to teach kindergarten. She is trying to step out of her life in order to recover from what is implied to have been a disasterous marriage. Her descriptions of Japan and the Japanese people are interesting, although slightly dated with a few racial references.

82. Rivers of London by Ben Aaronovitch - 4.2 ★

An urban fantasy set in London, this book was a fun, original read about an apprentice wizard who is also a police constable in the City of London. This is the first book in a series that I will be following.

83. The Bounty Hunters by Elmore Leonard - 3.6 ★

This was Elmore Leonard's first published novel, and although a pretty good western, it's not quite up to the level of his later ones. I am going to be passing this one along to my husband who enjoys westerns as much as I do.

84. The Unpleasantness at the Bellona Club by Dorothy Sayers - 4.0 ★

The unpleasantness in this case was that a body had been sitting in this gentleman's club for some time and had been overlooked. Everyone thought the 90 year old general was simply sleeping. Luckily Lord Peter Wimsey was also a member of the club and was on hand to investigate. As always, I enjoy the wit and humor of this series and was thoroughly engaged by the layered plot.

85. Laura by Vera Caspary - 4.3 ★

Another classic mystery, Laura was a great read and although I had trouble separating this story from the movie version, both are excellent. This copy will soon be on it's way to other family members.

86. Watching the Dark by Peter Robinson - 4.1 ★

After 20 books, I am thrilled to say that this series is still excellent. This was a very good police procedural that has Banks and his crew investigating the murder of a policeman who is shot in the chest with a cross bow.

87. Anne of the Island†† by L.M. Montgomery - 4.2 ★

I am still enjoying revisiting this series that I last year over 20 years ago. In this volume Anne moves from being a young girl into becoming a woman.

88. Number the Stars †† by Lois Lowry - 4.0 ★

I thought Lois Lowry delivered a powerful story with this book that illustrated the heroic actions of the Danish people in their effort to save as many of their Jewish population as they could by helping them escape to Sweden before they could be taken by the Nazi's. By focusing on one small story she was able to show the terror, suspense and resourcefulness that help accomplish this rescue. An moving and interesting read.

89. Outpost†† by Ann Aguirre - 4.0 739733;

A little less action and a little more romance in this, the second in her Razorland series, but still a quick and thrilling read. This YA dystopian series has proven to be an exciting series and one I look forward to continuing on with.

90. Queen Lucia†† by E.F. Benson - 3.9 ★

Short, amusing and light, Queen Lucia is the first in a series of books where the author turns his wit and humor on the aspiring middle class of a rural English village. A quick, run read.

91. The Trader's Wife†† by Anna Jacobs - 3.8 ★

A light enjoyable historical romance set in the exotic locations of Singapore and the colony of Freemantle, Australia. Starting in 1865 this is the first of a trilogy about various characters that are helping to establish the colony. I will soon be downloading the next two.

92. The Inheritors by William Golding - 4.3 ★

The Inheritors by William Golding is the sad story of how the lesser race of Neanderthanls were supplanted by the Homo Sapien newcomers. In Golding's tale a group of simple, gentle Neanderthals come into contact with a tribe of Homo Sapiens and unfortunately the earth appears to only have room for one group of people. It isn't until the final chapter that the reader is given an insight into the Homo Sapien's thoughts and realize that fear, intolerence and ignorance play a major role. I've had this book on my shelf for a number of years and will be passing it along to my brother.

Oh, I remember The Inheritors. We had to read it at school. I enjoyed it more than Lord of the Flies, which we also read.

Hi Robert, I loved Lord of the Flies when I read it but I recently read that The Inheritors was William Golding's favorite of his works and so wanted to check it out. I'm glad I did for it was well worth reading.

93. Flesh Eaters by Joe McKinney - 4.0 ★

This is the first of my planned horror reading for October, and the third in the author's zombie series. This one jumps us back to the beginning and follows a family as they first survive a series of hurricanes and then the zombies that arise from the soup of pollution left in the wake of the storms. Fast paced thriller that overall was a fun read.

wow - you are almost there!

Wouldn't believe it if I didn't see it...
great job of rooting!

Thanks, Cee. I am currently reading through a stack of library books, but I hope to get a few more ROOTS put away before the month ends. I am hoping to reach my goal during November.

94. The Bloody Chamber: And Other Stories by Angela Carter - 4.2 ★

I have been struggling a bit with my reading so I put aside the novel I was working on and picked up this volume of short stories. These reworked fairy stories were both unsettling and bewitching. Picking up on some very adult themes and written in beautiful descriptive words, these stories were exactly what I needed right now.

What a wonderful job you've done! Congratulations on your success so far.

Thanks Vivienne, I am enjoying finding so many hidden gems that have been sitting on my shelves for far too long.

95. The Reapers Are The Angels by Alden Bell - 4.5 ★

A beautifully written tale of a young woman who lives in a very different America than today's. It is 25 years after the zombie apocalypse and this young woman has surviving down to a fine art. Unfortunately, she is running from her own inner demons. Written in a southern gothic style, I loved the story, loved the writing but there were a few details that left me shaking my head in disbelief. These few details kept this book from being a 5 star read. The Reapers Are the Angels is a literary read that elevates the zombie genre to a whole new level.

96. Black Fly Season by Giles Blunt - 3.8 ★

This is the third book in a series of police procedurals. I love the Canadian setting and this book was quite the page turner. I fully intend to carry on with the series.

97. Let Him Go by Larry Watson - 5.0 ★

An Early Review copy, Let Him Go is a wonderful read. A simple morality tale told in sparse, poetic prose about two families that clash over the custody of a child. A moving story written by a master of his craft.

98. A High Wind in Jamaica†† by Richard Hughes - 3.8 ★

I was expecting a novel of adventure as the story deals with schoolchildren captured by pirates, but this was instead a psychological study on the nature of children. I don't agree with the author's premise that all children will become savages if there is no adult supervision but it certainly made for an interesting read.

99. The Woman In Black by Susan Hill - 4.3 ★

I found this to be an excellent ghost story both subtle and dark. I got the chills a couple of times, and enjoyed the author's use of language and her descriptions.

This will conclude my October reading, I have one book to read before my Challenge will be successfully concluded. I am now going to be reading from a pile of library books, but will finish the challenge in a week or so.

YAY! You are a most excellent reader.
I'm not sure I can make my goal for roots this year. It's gonna be tight as I have too many other (new) books to read. Oh well. We'll see.
There's always next year...

Great work on your goal!

222 - It's weird that so many people think children will go savage. In my experience (and from what I've read) young kids are fanatics for rules. I think I read recently that children react negatively to seeing rules broken/baddies rewarded even before they can talk. I do like that I can tell my niece a specific rule and she'll then enforce it for me, including pushing her mother out of rooms.

#225 - Cee, in reality my Roots will never be under control as I can't seem to control my buying habits! When I first joined LT, I had a TBR shelf of somewhere between 30 - 40 books. Today my TBR shelves hold more than 600 books.

#226 - I totally agree, while some of his points were valid, I think the whole reverting to savages is way too extreme.

100. Fighting Caravans by Zane Grey - 3.4 ★

Originally published in 1929, Fighting Caravans is rather dated today both in the language used and the attitudes conveyed. As difficult as it is to read some of these cringe-worthy lines, I do think the author was accurate in his descriptions of attitudes at this time in history. The story itself was adventurous and thrilling.

With the completion of my last book, I have reached my 2013 Roots goal. I will continue to post my roots here through to the end of the year in order to contribute to the group total.

You did it!!!!

Congratulations :-)

Great job and thanks for the continuing contributions!

Congratulations my Queen.

Hurray! Congratulations! :D

Wow, great work!!

Congratulations Judi!

Congratulations!

Wow, thanks everybody! It's certainly lovely to get congratulated on doing something that I love. Bring on more books!

WOW. Well done!

Congratulations Judi. Great job!

Well done!!!

With time to spare! Congrats!

Thanks Connie, Vivienne, Ameise and Clue. I spent today rearranging my shelves, I wish I could say that reading 100 books from them really gave me some room, but I have added more than that already this year and I am pretty much running out of shelf room.

101. Good Graces by Lesley Kagan - 4.5 ★

This book was a sequel to Whistling in the Dark which I read a couple of years ago. The story is told by the now twelve year old Sally, as she and her sister put in another adventurous summer, where the younger sister, Troo misbehaves and the elder, Sally, tries to protect her. In turns funny, poignant and quite simply a wonderful read. My mother also loved the first book and will be quite pleased that there is sequel.

102. Lord Grizzly by Frederick Manfred - 4.6 ★

The author did an amazing job of blending fact and fiction with this book. Based on the true story from 1822 of frontiersman Hugh Glass getting mauled by a grizzly bear and then being left in the wilderness to die. His rage at being abandoned and his quest for revenge kept him going as he crawled over 200 miles to safety. A wonderfully written book that I really enjoyed. My husband is eager for his chance to now pick it up.

103. Anne of Windy Poplars by L.M. Montgomery - 3.4 ★

Continuing on with my re-reading of this series, I wasn't as taken with this fourth volume, finding it repetitious and Anne came across as a little too pefect. I know that this was actually written after the rest of the series, and I definitely got the feeling that it was more-or-less a filler. The book covers the three years that Anne works as a principal in Summerside while waiting for Gilbert to complete medical school.

Wow, I didn't know that Windy Poplars was written afterward! Interesting. My favourite volume in the series might be Anne's House of Dreams.

I plan on reading Anne's House of Dreams next month. While most of the series was written between 1908 and 1921, both Anne of Windy Poplars and Anne of Ingleside weren't added until 1936 and 1939. It will be interesting to see if Anne of Ingleside also has a different feel from the rest of the series.

104. Riders of the Purple Sage†† by Zane Grey - 2.5 ★

I was quite disappointed with Riders of the Purple Sage, expecting a classic western but ending up with a rather cheesy "horse opera" where the author expressed strongly his prejudice toward the Morman faith and the people who practice it. Not one of this author's better books.

105. Escape From Berlin by Irene N. Watts - 4.2 ★

In honor of the 75th anniversary of the Kindertransport program that was responsible for saving over 10,000 children from the Holocaust, the author has combined three previously published novellas into this one book. Telling the story of two young girls as they are transported to safety in Britian. This YA book is very well written and I found it to be both an excellent and emotional read.

Wow! I'm gobsmacked that you've finished the challenge, and that you're still going! Kudos to you!!!

Thanks Laura, I've had a very successful reading year so far. :)

106. Birds , Beasts and Relatives by Gerald Durrell - 4.1 ★

The second book in his Corful Trilogy, this book is chock full of more stories about the time his family spent on the island, the curious creatures he finds there, and his wonderful family along with assorted friends and acquaintaces. Pretty much a straight continuation of My Family and Other Animals, a charming and humorous read.

Loved those Durrell books. In this family we still use words unique to Durrell's Corfu.

I love Durrell's books too, my girlfriend and I originally read the Corfu Trilogy when we were about thirteen and I remember lots of smiles and giggles!

107. The Winthrop Woman†† by Anya Seton - 4.6 ★

This is another book that I originally read many, many years ago. Anya Seton was an author I read a lot of in my younger years and always enjoyed. The Winthrop Woman is an excellent historical fiction work, a well researched and well told story based on the life of Elizabeth Winthrop, a member of a family of Puritan leaders who helped govern the original settlements in New England. This author vividly brings to life the religious and political conflicts as well as the day-to-day hardships that these settlers faced.

108. Mrs. Miniver by Jan Struther - 4.1 ★

I picked up this book thinking I knew the story as I have seen the movie a few times. Imagine my surprise to find this book is in no way at all like the movie! Instead of a WWII family-at-war story, this was a series of essays based on the observations and musings of an upper middle class woman. The war was in the background and you were given a picture of a country buckling down for the duration. Excellent character study and a most enjoyable read.

109. Wish Upon A Star†† by Trisha Ashley - 3.3 ★

This was a romance story with a slight Christmas theme that I decided to read in order to kick off the festive season. My first by this author, I liked it well enough that I would certainly try another book by her at some point. Another one to wipe off my Kindle.

Congratulations on reaching your goal!

Thanks Mandymarie. I feel guilty as I just don't get enough time to keep up socially here. I usually only come by when I have a book to add. Because of this I have decided that I will not have a thread for Roots next year, but I still fully intend to make at least 65 % of my reading come from my shelves. Gotta keep those books moving along!

110. The Song Is You by Megan Abbott - 4.4 ★

Having completed the major challenges that I was working on this year, I am taking advantage of my free time to just grab a book from my shelves randomly. This was one such book. I loved the previous book I read by this author, and I liked this one even more. A noirish mystery set in Hollywood during the late 40's and early 50's, this is not a book for the squeamish as it has a fair amount of violence and depicts some sexual depravity. Personally this blend of real life stories mixed with fictional characters totally glued me to the pages.

111. Winter Thunder by Mari Sandoz - 3.8 ★

It feels a little like cheating to count this very slim book, but it is a separate volume and did make Reader's Digest list of the Ten Best Short American Novels, so I am counting it. The book tells the harrowing tale of a young teacher, a 16 year old bus driver and seven young children that are caught in a blizzard in 1949 and stranded for a number of days. Based on the real story of the author's niece, this was quite the read.

112. Un Lun Dun†† by China Mieville - 4.0 ★

For me this was more like a 3.3 star read, but as I am positive that this book would delight and charm it's targeted children's audience, I am giving it 4 stars. He tones down the weird and keeps his plot simple, but there are still touches of Mieville in the puns, and the incredible inversed London that he creates.

113. The New Sonia Wayward by Michael Innes - 4.1 ★

This is less a thriller and more of a satire but still a very engaging read. When his famous novelist wife drops dead while they are on a boating holiday, her husband slips her overboard and proceeds to tell people that she is simply gone on holiday. He takes over her writing and is prepared to enjoy his simple life of quiet refinement. Of course, he is soon struggling to keep Sonia's death from surfacing.

WOW, DeltaQ. Number 113! Respect!

Thanks Connie, I am quite proud of the fact that I have moved that many books off my shelves this year.

114. The Secret River by Kate Grenville - 5.0 ★

This was a wonderful read that dealt with the convict transporations and early dealings with the Australian Aboriginies. A well researched, complex story that kept the pages turning. I have had this book on my shelf for almost three years, and I am so glad that I finally pulled it down.

I was going to read this for the Miles Franklin award this year, but didn't think I'd finish before the end of the year, so I decided to wait and read it for the Australia Geo Cat next year. Glad to know it's a worthwhile read - sounds interesting.

Betty, you have a great read ahead of you, I was totally drawn in to The Secret River and really enjoyed it.

115. A Darcy Christmas†† by Sharon Lathan, Caroline Eberhart, Amanda Grange - 3.1 ★

This book consists of three Christmas themed novellas all of which are peopled with characters from Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. Of the three, the first by Caroline Eberhart was terrible, almost caused me to abandon the book. The second by Amanda Grange came the closest, in my opinion, to capturing the essence of Jane Austen. The third was my favorite, simply because it was the most Christmas-y which was the reason I was reading the book in the first place.

116. Corpsing by Toby Litt - 4.2 ★

This is a new-to-me author whose book, Corpsing has been on my shelves for a couple of years. I learned about him from a member of the Category Challenge and have been eager to give him a try. I really found this book unique as the author is able to look at things from a very different angle. Although I found the book dragged at little in the middle, overall, this one held my attention as I read about a young man who survived an attack upon himself and his ex-girlfriend.

117. Anne's House of Dreams†† by L.M. Montgomery - 3.8 ★

Anne's House of Dreams recaptured the spirit of these books and I enjoyed reading about Anne and Gilbert's first couple of years as a married couple. They are tested by a tragedy, but this just strengthens their bond.

118. Devil's Oasis by Bartle Bull - 3.9 ★

This was the third volume of an adventure trilogy set in Africa in the years after WW I and on into WWII. This third volume concludes the story of Anton Ryder, his family and friends. There is a great deal of war action as both Ryder and his son are fighting in Northern Africa, and Ryder's old friend, Ernst von Decken, now becomes the enemy as he choses to fight on the German side. With full-on action, romance and political intrigue, this is a page turner full of colorful characters.